10th May 2023

Many students we talk to are interested in the field of mental health, so we thought it would be useful to summarise the different areas you could be working in:

Psychiatry

This is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental disorders. Psychiatrists are doctors who have specialised in psychiatry and can prescribe medication, as well as provide psychotherapy and other interventions. To become a psychiatrist, you need to complete a medical degree, followed by two years of foundation training and six years of specialty training.

Psychological professions

These include counsellors, clinical psychologists, psychotherapists and other therapists who use psychological theories and methods to help people with mental health problems. They can work in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, schools, prisons or private practice. To become a psychological professional, you need to have a relevant degree (usually in psychology), followed by further training and accreditation in your chosen field. 


Mental health nursing

This is the practice of caring for people with mental health problems in various settings, such as hospitals, community teams or residential homes. Mental health nurses can assess, plan, implement and evaluate care for their patients, as well as provide support and education. They can also administer medication and work with other professionals as part of a multidisciplinary team. To become a mental health nurse, you need to complete a three-year degree in nursing (mental health branch), followed by registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council


Mental health pharmacy

This is the field of pharmacy that focuses on the safe and effective use of medication for mental health conditions. Mental health pharmacists can work in various settings, such as hospitals, community pharmacies or primary care. They can advise patients and prescribers on the best medication options, monitor side effects and interactions, provide information and education, and support adherence and recovery. To become a mental health pharmacist, you need to complete a four-year master's degree in pharmacy, followed by a one-year pre-registration training and registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council


Creative therapies

These include art therapy, drama therapy and music therapy, which use creative media to help people express themselves and cope with mental health problems. Creative therapists can work with individuals or groups in various settings, such as hospitals, schools or community centres. They can help people explore their feelings, thoughts and experiences through creative activities, such as drawing, painting, acting or singing. To become a creative therapist, you need to have a relevant degree (usually in art, drama or music), followed by a postgraduate qualification and registration with the Health and Care Professions Council.


Support roles

These include occupational therapy assistants, support time and recovery workers, peer support workers and other roles that provide practical and emotional support to people with mental health problems. Support roles can work in various settings, such as hospitals, community teams or voluntary organisations. They can help people with their daily activities, such as personal care, cooking or shopping; provide companionship and encouragement; assist with accessing services and resources; and share their own experiences of recovery. To work in a support role, you usually need some relevant qualifications or experience in mental health or social care.

These are just some examples of the many careers in mental health in the UK. You can find out more about each role on the NHS Health Careers website, where you can also explore other roles and training opportunities. You can also check the NHS jobs website for current vacancies in mental health, which is very useful for giving you an idea of what a real job entails.

Additional Resources

See Your Future...Be Your Future - Healthcare

Mental Health Awareness Week

eCLips - Healthcare

Portal Healthcare podcasts

Charlie Waller podcast - learn how different professions affect mental health

Royal College of Psychiatry podcast